BIRMINGHAM, Ala.—The Samford football team practiced for about two hours in shells Tuesday afternoon at Seibert Stadium. The Bulldogs are continuing to prepare for Thursday night's season opener against Central Arkansas.
 
Samford put the finishing touches on installing the team's game plan during Tuesday's workout. The team will have one final workout in the form of a jog-through Friday afternoon at Seibert Stadium.
 
One of the key returners to the offense this season is junior wide receiver Karel Hamilton. The preseason All-SoCon selection was the team's leading receiver in 2014. Hamilton says the team has been working hard to prepare for Thursday night's game.
 
"We've come a long way," Hamilton said. "We've had a lot of freshmen step up this fall so far. We're putting a lot of stuff together right now. The offensive line is coming together. The quarterback reads with the receivers and running backs, everything is coming together really well."
 
Thursday night's game will be the Bulldogs' first chance to work against another team, after going against themselves for the last month. Hamilton said the team is ready to take on an outside opponent.
 
"That's been the buzz around the locker room," Hamilton said. "Right now, everybody is ready to finally hit somebody else."
 
Wednesday's final jog-through is scheduled for 3:40 p.m. at Seibert Stadium.
 
Samford opens the 2015 season Thursday night, when the Bulldogs play host to Central Arkansas. The game, which will air live on ESPN3, is scheduled for a 6 p.m. start from Seibert Stadium.
 
Season tickets are currently on sale. Fans can purchase season tickets through the athletics website at www.samfordsports.com/tickets, by calling 205-726-DOGS (3647) or by visiting the ticket office on the third floor of the Pete Hanna Center.